Despite the short week that tends to make even the most prepared teams look sloppy, QB Peyton Manning still threw for 286 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Broncos to a 35-21 win over the AFC West rival San Diego Chargers at Mile High Stadium. 

Since their Week 4 bye, the Broncos have won four straight games by a combined 74 points.

Emmanuel Sanders exploded for 120 yards and three TD’s on nine receptions. Demaryius Thomas surpassed 100 yards receiving for the fourth straight game. Ronnie Hillman gained 109 on the ground. 

For the Chargers, QB Phillip Rivers’ favorite target was Keenan Allen, who grabbed nine catches for 73 yards and a TD. 

Before the Thursday night game, TE Antonio Gates already owned the team record for receiving touchdowns and catches, but late in the first half, he surpassed Lance Alworth for most yards in team history.

San Diego will try to right the ship next Sunday at Miami against an improving Dolphins squad, while the Broncos travel to New England for a rematch of last year’s AFC Championship Game.